The morning came softly at Markree Castle — our last sunrise over the misty grounds that had held so much laughter, creativity, and connection over the past few days. As light filtered through the castle windows and the scent of fresh scones filled the air, everyone knew this day would feel a little different.
It was time to say goodbye… but not before one last Intrigue-style adventure.
Breakfast, Goodbyes & One Last Look
Guests gathered for breakfast in the dining room, some lingering by the fire, others quietly taking in every last detail of the castle’s stone corridors and stained-glass windows. Between hugs and shared smiles, there was a bittersweet mix of gratitude and disbelief — how had three days passed so quickly?
After check-out, suitcases rolled across the cobblestones, and one by one we boarded the coach for our final journey together — a countryside tour designed to close the retreat with a blend of wonder, storytelling, and heartfelt reflection.
Two Paths Through Ireland’s Charm
As the bus pulled away, the group split for a few final experiences.
Our florists made a stop in Carrick-on-Shannon, an utterly charming riverside town that looked like something out of a postcard. With colorful shopfronts, cobblestone streets, and the scent of coffee drifting through the crisp air, it was the perfect spot to unwind after days of design. Lattes were sipped, souvenirs were found, and laughter filled the sidewalks as friends strolled and shopped together — no deadlines, no designs, just joy.
Meanwhile, our photographers and videographers ventured deeper into the countryside for one final creative shoot — this time chasing waterfalls and mist at Gleniff Horseshoe. With a model among them and Ireland’s dramatic green landscape as their backdrop, they captured images that felt almost otherworldly. Rolling hills, mossy cliffs, and quiet streams came alive through their lenses, the perfect final chapter in their storytelling journey.
By late afternoon, both groups reunited in Dublin — tired, happy, and still buzzing from the beauty of it all.
A Toast to the Journey
Our final evening brought everyone together once more for a farewell dinner at Darkey Kelly’s, a cozy, candlelit pub near the Harding Hotel where our adventure first began. Plates were shared, stories retold, and toasts raised to new friendships and unforgettable memories. It was the kind of dinner that felt like family — laughter echoing between courses, hearts full from everything we’d experienced together.
And though the retreat had officially come to a close, no one seemed quite ready for it to end. Many continued the night Intrigue-style, following the sounds of live music into a few local pubs for one last round (or two). There was singing, dancing, and the unmistakable warmth of Irish cheer — the perfect ending to a week we’ll never forget.
Until We Meet Again
As we packed our bags and prepared to part ways, one thing became clear — Intrigue Goes to Ireland was more than a retreat. It was a shared experience of art, beauty, and connection that will live in our hearts forever.
From the castle halls to the countryside cliffs, every moment was a reminder of why we create, why we gather, and how magical it can be when creative souls come together in a place as timeless as Ireland.
So, while we may have left the castle behind, we carry a piece of its magic with us — until the next adventure calls.
Special thanks to our creative partners:
Photography by Skyler Jordan Photography
Retreat host @intrigue_designs
Venue @markreecastlesligo
Flowers @intrigueteaches student led team
Floral Co-hosts @theflowershedsligo & @kaysflowerschool
Models @thefoxandtheivy @alexia.woolum
Concierge Meteorologist @ironicreports
Raincoats @rain.sisters
Wholesale Flowers @hoekflowers
Flower Software @detailsflowers
Suppliers @oasisfloralproductsamerica @oasisfloralproductsuk